Thoughts

 

At the end of the day, does it matter?

Lily Allen

 Lily Allen

Ampalaya omelette

Slice ampalaya into thin strips

Submerge strips into hot water for at least 5-10 minutes with pinch of salt then drain

Saute tomatoes, garlic and onions in oil. Add a bit of sea salt and magic sarap. Upon caramelized, add the drain ampalaya. Add magic sarap. Mix for a while. Add a bit of butter.

Add two eggs with magic sarap. Mix carefully with the ampalaya. Season with pepper. Let it cook for a while for about 2-3 mins or until brownish of some parts of the omelette . Add small size butter on sides of the omelette. Flip the omelette by portion. Add butter so it won't stick to the pan. Add pepper. Cook for a while until browned. 

Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw sa Hipon

Oil, 2-3 tablespoons

4-5 cloves garlic, chopped

2 medium red onions, chopped lengthwise

Tanglad

6 pieces medium size shrimps with salt, heads with salt, removed and set aside

Squash, cut into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick

Sitaw, cut into 1.5 inch length

Green chili pepper

Coco Mama 200 mL

Magic Sarap

Pepper

In a 800w setting, heat the oil in the pan and add the heads of the shrimp. Let the umami of the shrimp heads seep through the oil and crush if necessary.

Add the garlic  and then the onions until translucent. Add the tanglad.

Add the squash and saute for 2 minutes. Add a sprinkle of magic Sarap. Mix well. 

Add the shrimps. Mix until orange.

Add Coco Mama. Add pepper. Add the Sitaw. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until squash is soft and can be easily poked with a fork.

Add chili. Simmer for another 2 minutes. Enjoy!

Mini fan

Mini fan

My aunt gifted me with this very useful item. I like that it has strong wind.

But one day, I thought that I misplaced the cord for charging so I ordered another piece along with the cord in the orange app for a total of 127 pesos. The fan costs around 69 pesos and the cord was priced at 29 pesos. Unfortunately, there was only extra 1 cord in the package when I ordered 2. The fan is strong but its power also exhausts really fast so if you plan to bring this with you, better bring a powerbank too.

Dipping sauce for Tofu

Soy sauce to Vinegar 2:1

Lots of onions

1 small garlic

1/3 inch ginger grated

Chili

Sanegeal Farmhear's Easy Stir-fry Kangkong Recipe

Good for 2 persons

Ingredients:

• sesame oil
• red onion sliced
• kangkong, 1 bunch
• 1 small Sachet of Mama Sita's oyster sauce

1. Submerge the kangkong in water with 1 caplet of vinegar and salt. Leave for at least 15 minutes. Rinse then drain well.

2. In a pan, in a 400 setting in the induction put 2 tbsp sesame oil and saute onion until translucent. Add the Kangkong and saute until bright green. Coat the Kangkong with half sachet of mama sitas oyster sauce. Season with black pepper. Enjoy!

Bad Bowl at Robinson's Magnolia

My sister treated me to a Mongolian BBQ buffet and we came to Bad Bowl. I thought she had already eaten at a place like this and it turns out that this is also her first time. For an unlimited Mongolian BBQ buffet it is 600 pesos inclusive of the service charge and VAT. If you want to have some hotpot, it will cost a little higher at 800 pesos.

If you are like me who is dining at Bad Bowl for the first time, upon entering you tell the front desk how many people with you are dining. You can sit anywhere you like as long as it's unoccupied. Upon sitting, they would be serving kropecks (like the ones they serve in Chowking) with a garlic mayo dip along with a glass of ice tea per person and the a pitcher with water. The server instructed us that we can already start.

In the section where the spreads are, you get a bowl and then get the ingredients that you want for your Mongolian bowl. It's like bibimbap, the only difference is that it will be cooked like a BBQ stirfry. There are a lot of variety of vegetables, mushrooms, pasta, rice and meat that you can find. When you're finished taking what you want for your meal, give the bowl to the cooking section and they will ask how do you want it to taste. I choose it to be savory and then they gave me a number. They will call out and will serve the cooked platter to you.

Proof that I really enjoyed my meal. An empty plate.

In my experience I really enjoyed the meal though I had consumed a bowl only though that isn't the case for my sister. I also sampled her bowl for a bit and she opted for a sweet and spicy flavor which for me was a meh.

Kaisa Villa Hair dryer

The last time my hair was subjected to a frequent hot blower was when I was in elementary when my mother used to do our hair do. Growing up, hair blowers are really not popular in the Philippines for everyday use. Not unless you go to a hair salon. We can typically see commuters with wet hair inside the jeepney. I admit that sometimes I'm one of them.

Anyway, I purchased a hair dryer in the orange app - Kaisa Villa Hair Dryer for 344 pesos inclusive of the shipping fee (339 pesos for the item). I was eyeing for more popular brands like Imarflex, Phillips or Panasonic but I decided that as long as it does the work then I'm okay with it. Maybe I'll invest in Dyson later on if budget permits. I also think that brands doesn't 100% guarantee that there won't be issues. I remembered that the Kaisa Villa food processor/hand blender that I had is a bang for a buck and so I choose this brand instead. 

To be honest I'm not really expecting much but these are my observations:

• The hair blower is not foldable.
• The cord is thick. (Plus point)
• Tried the max settings to dry off my hair. Hair dryer after is not hot in any part of the appliance.
• The setting are not heavily embossed so it might be a little difficult to see the settings

Can you see the embossed numbers and symbol?

You might want to refer to the box instead

Silicon ice molders

I was looking for an ice molder that is big enough because I noticed that bigger cubes doesn't melt easily but if you want to have an easier way to make your drinks cold, stir a lot of small ones instead. I thought that this would be the one that I'm looking for but it was not. However, what amazed me about purchasing a silicon ice molder is that taking off the ice cubes is a breeze comparing to a non-silicon. You wet the outside bottom part of the molder and then pop it out using your thumb.

Earth, Wind & Fire

I like their September. I can't believe I'm missing a lot on not recognizing their other songs much earlier. The songs are familiar and I did not know they were the artist of these bop songs.

 Earth, Wind & Fire - Let's Groove

Earth, Wind & Fire - Boogie Wonderland

St Dalfour Fruit Spreads Gift Set

My cousin who came from Canada gifted us this adorable spread of fruit jams from St. Dalfour! 

I liked the Blueberry one as I find raspberry and the strawberry a bit sour. One cute size would yield around 4-5 spreads. What I also love about this spread is that it is not brimming with sweetness. Though you may know that sugar is the one preserving the fruit in the jams.

How do you start your stew?

When it comes to cooking, I always find cooking stew simple to do. You would just put in the aromatics such as the onion and the tomatoes first. Next is dropping the meat into the pot (we usually utilize fish)  after boiling. And after another boil the vegetables would go in. Finally, after a quick boil then you can salt according to your preference. And there you already have a dish!

How do you start your stews? Mine would be halving the onion and the tomatoes and let it simmer until it becomes soft. I disentangle the onions and squish and mash the tomatoes just so the nutrients would seep into the soup. Did you know that you can only extract lycopene in tomatoes when you boil it? Eating it raw won't.

UK Salary Calculator

If you're looking for a site that provides the breakdown of your taxes, national insurance and take home pay based on your annual income, you can check this website. The Salary Calculator

It computes annually, monthly, weekly and daily.

Fob watches

Fob watches are a necessity when you're in healthcare practicing in a European country. I heard its because they do not allow to have things which are in the hands up until the elbow. I ordered 3 pieces and this costs around 243 pesos excluding the shipping fee.

When I found out about this type of watch, I was a bit surprised as I was always wore a watch on my wrist. A watch for me is always essential. When I was able to see the watches, it was cute and the colored holder is made of silicone.

Li-lets Peanut Butter

If you're keen on eating peanut butter, I would definitely recommend Li-lets Peanut Butter. The popular brands seen in the supermarket costs around 360 pesos for a kilogram and this one that I ordered is only 173 pesos for 1.1 kilogram.

When you open it, it is sealed and I like that it is already well blended. No oil on the top.

It has a lighter nutty flavor and the taste is well balanced which is perfect for a peanut butter spread. However, if you intend to use it for a kare-kare dish I would recommend to go for the supermarket brands or make your own.

One serving amounts to 2 tablespoons. But take note that it packs a ton of calories though its high in protein.

Like every peanut butter, it has a short shelf life of 6 months.

McDonald's Crispy Chicken Sandwich too salty?

McDonald's Crispy Chicken Sandwich too salty? Tips

My sister ordered a McCrispy Chicken Sandwich. Mom thinks that it's too salty and so do I. How to fix this so that it is more palatable to our buds?

I suddenly had the idea to add lettuce or tomatoes but it was not available in our fridge. What I opted to instead was a quarter slice of red bell pepper that was julienned in big size (or is there a more appropriate term for this? Let me know in the comments) and a big red onion sliced into onion rings which are 1/3 inch thick. Coat with oil and let it cook in the airfryer at 160 Degrees until it becomes a bit soft.

I also included the sandwich so I could reheat the meat and the two buns.

Enjoy!

Amis Restaurant in Quiapo

Amis Restaurant in Quiapo

Disclaimer: This is my personal opinion.

I want to try eating in Amis restaurant before I fly to another country and I happen to see this restaurant in Tiktok as one of the recommendations.

I could say that the service was fast and the staff were attentive.

Unfortunately, the ones we ordered were not up to par with what we wanted and ended up disappointed as I was excited to try out their menu. Their Chicken Mami (180) was bland, and mom was not happy at all. We originally wanted to order the wanton Mami but it was unavailable. Their palabok with tokwat baboy (130) has an acceptable taste but if I were to compare, Jolli Dada is more cheaper and gives more value if you're in Quiapo. Siopao Bola Bola (65) is okay, but those in chowking is better. Their Sago and gulaman is the winner in my mom's palate at 130. Mom thinks the sweetness in the sagot gulaman is not arnibal.

For the price, menu ranges an average of 150-300 pesos. Will we go back? I think not.

Trying out the Tyeso Insulated Tumbler

I've been eyeing insulated tumblers since last year and finally had the decision to get one. I was choosing between Aquaflask and the Tyeso brand. While I would say the former have more quality than the other, I don't like the heavy weight and its narrow opening apart from it being pricier so I settled with the Tyeso tumbler. It is a 900 mL tumbler which costs 350 pesos in total in the orange app since the shipping fee was waived and I also got a 10 pesos off from the shop.

I got the blue color and I absolutely like how it looks. I tried if it would spill, but it did not.

Let's see if there are any issues later on.

Update: I used the tumbler when we went to Starbucks. I tried to tilt it after inspecting the edges for leaks and it splashed. I don't know if it's because of the hotness in the temperature but I'll try again later on

Updated my prescription glasses today!

Hehe. I think I had a fruitful day today with my mom. She accompanied me to the family's recommended opthalmologist (Dr. Gilbert Santos) to have my prescription glasses updated. His professional fee is 1200 pesos which I think is just and I like it that he's cool. He reminded that eye check ups should be done every two years (Sorry Doc!). After getting the reading, I found out that my right eye is now -7.50 which the left is around -6.25. The right eye has risen by a hundred whereas the other stayed the same.

Afterwards, we ate at Popeye's for lunch and then proceeded to Carriedo for the eyeglasses. I went to my go to optical shop which is Eye Republic and their multi coated lens with ultra thin of 1.67 costs around 3800. The frame was originally at 800 pesos but we were able to haggle and settled at 700. The total cost was 4500 pesos which was not bad considering I have a high grade of myopia.

we'll be okay, for today

 we'll be okay, for today

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Along the way I realized that all along, you hold the validation that you always needed and yearned for. - Sanegeal Farmhear

Happy New Year! Praying for an abundant and prosperous 2024!

Happy New Year! 

 New Year lunch

Happy New Year to you and your family! The past couple of years brought the good and the bad (hopefully the worst) for me, but it was overall a gift for these things provided me the clarity and the audacity to step up and step out of my comfort zone.

I think that I may have either been burnt out or depressed for at least a month in the early quarter of last year. I may have been internalizing these problems that I realized that those dreams were actually there to warn me.

Any way, I know that I can do this. Prayers work wonders. I thank God for providing me the courage and bravery to finally go out of my shell.

I am an over worrier. I tend to stress out on things easily. Maybe I unconsciously learned it from my mother who stress over small things. Also part of it is being indecisive. I realized that not making a decision is also a decision so why not take risk on the option that is what you really want? It's okay not to feel guilty when you are only advocating for yourself. You are the only person who can do it for you.

Setting up on expectations on people will only result to disappointment and I've learned not to rely on other people but myself.

I'll be voyaging on a new chapter and a new territory this 2024. I am finally learning that its okay to dream for yourself and to remind that you are not responsible for anyone but you.

Praying for you and for me an abundant, prosperous and exhilarating, exciting 2024!

When will my life begin

This really hits hard.

Coffee is life

Who doesn't like coffee?

Perhaps there are a minute number of people who doesn't but I belong to the other side of the spectrum who has a penchant for coffee.

My sister and I plan to have a midnight snack (or dinner) since we're famished and ordered at Burger King through the Grab app. We wanted to have coffee too so we also got their Iced Mocha Coffee and I'm in love with it. I already love their coffee float but I was delighted to discover an addition to my favorites.

Rice in the cooker spoils fast. What should I do?

In a typical Filipino household (and culture), rice is a staple food that is why there is an ongoing meme that says rice is life. Have you ever experienced forgetting to put the cooked rice in the fridge and then you found it spoiled because laid there in the cooker? I think that every one had probably already experienced it once or two. And then the next time you cook the rice in that same cooker (though it's already thoroughly washed and cleaned), it seems the next cooked rice tends to spoil faster?

Some tip that I got before was to put salt in the rice. But the ultimate hack that I discovered was to clean it thoroughly and then put the cleaned cookware (pot) in the gas stove without anything and open the fire into high heat. If you can already sense heat in your hand when you place it an inch or two from the surface of the pot, turn off the heat and let it cool. Do it every time there is spoilage. I got this idea because I thought since bacteria causes the spoilage, we should eliminate the bacteria first. Mind you, I've also tried putting sodium hypochlorite (Zonrox) and letting it sit in the pot for a while but in my opinion I think I'm not satisfied with its effectivity aside from the fact that we are using chemicals that deals directly with our food.

Anyway, bacteria thrives in moisture and heat. The bad thing about in our rented apartment, there is a very high humidity and bad ventilation. So food tends to spoil fast.  I thought that the little gaps that might be a breeding spot for the bacteria in the pot so exposing it to high heat would probably kill it.

And that's it! Hope it helps!

Sanegeal Farmhear

There are a lot of things that I'm grateful for

 There are a lot of things that I'm grateful for

I've been mulling over for a moment (while listening to Christian songs) and realized that there are a lot of things that I'm grateful for (and should be).

Funny how I can clearly see how the adults become frail and vulnerable, and we, the once children, are now the adults. It is scary of what lies ahead but it feels exhilarating.

We now need to step up and be accountable for us and for those loved ones who surrounds us.

Oh how I wished!

 Oh how I wished I'd hadn't been parentified.

How nice would it be, once for all to decide for oneself without feeling guilty.

Funny how it felt that I was grieving for a lost my childhood. To feel being a child without worries. To seek adventure without hindrances.

Sometimes, I wonder why I exist.

Maybe that's why at some point in time, I stopped dreaming.

My Pending Medical Exam at SM Lazo Medical Clinic experience 2023

My Pending Medical Exam at SM Lazo Medical Clinic experience 2023

If you are going to take your pre-employment medical examination at SM Lazo Medical Clinic, it is better not to divulge any medical histories which you think would not affect your work. Well, it is a different story if this is related to the heart, lungs, blood, kidney and other vital organs. Do not believe it when the referral form from your agency says that it is imperative to declare conditions to minimize expenses (in fact, it did the opposite for me!)

As a believer of being honest in everything that I say and do, I definitely made a costly mistake of declaring all the medical histories which I have and was really appalled when the examining physician required me to have 2 medical clearances. I was contesting why they would still need this as one is a hereditary skin condition and the other is diagnosed during childhood and does not affected me at all which never needed any medical intervention or consultations in my previous employments. The doctor said that the agency is the one who is strict (which I think is a load of B.S. as they are the ones who decides fit to work) Now I get it why there are a lot of negative feedbacks in the Google reviews and in the support forum groups.

I was willing to pay for the medical clearance from their consultants available but I was disappointed and angry that I had to go to their respective clinics on different locations. I went to the nearby clinic of the referred doctor and the consultant had many patients so the medical secretary advised for me to go have my appointment for another time. I decided to get the medical clearance near me. It didn't helped that there is an ongoing transport strike of the public jeepneys.

I was also nervous at this time as I previously worked in a clinic, I know that before doctors can give you a clearance, you should have a previous history (series of consultations) with them. They should have a basis for that. So I was anticipating that the doctor could give me a diagnostic/laboratory request if it is their prerogative that these were essential.

Fortunately, I saw a familiar name and it turned out that the consultant was one of the doctors that I've worked with during her training period. I don't really like revealing myself to anyone as I don't want to put pressure on people. She said that I looked familiar and then that's the time I did say when. Thank God I was able to get a medical clearance without a fuss.

Overall, it costed me a whooping 11,450 pesos just for the medical - 3750 pesos for the medical exam, 2500 total for the dental cleaning (1500 pesos) and pasta (1000 pesos). For the medical clearances, 1500 for the childhood medical condition and the derma was 3700 pesos. 

One tip that I could give you is to get your dental cleaning or any procedure done with your trusted dentist outside and ask for a dental certificate as this would cost you less.

If ever you need to really declare your medical condition, it is necessary to get a medical clearance from your attending doctor regardless if it is benign or a small matter or not so that you won't experience the same hassle that I did. Bring your IOM TB Certificate and a photocopy if you have one. I didn't bring mine but luckily I had a scanned copy in my e-mail so I forwarded it in the clinics email address instead.

If you had the go signal from your agency to do your pre-employment with this clinic, do it early. It took me 2 weeks before I was cleared and deemed fit to work.

Mei Ying Fresh Lumpia and Fresh Sugarcane Juice

Mei Ying Fresh Lumpia near Lucky Chinatown

I can't help myself but to chomp it down right after I went home

I went to my alma mater for some requested documents that I needed and since I was in Manila, I decided to go to Divisoria. Along the way I bought some fruits (pears and 2 packs of kiat which are sweet). I also planned to go to the street where the vegetables are cheap after taking my lunch at 168 mall but my plan changed because I saw that the street was getting too crowded with people and I was a bit exhausted now. I was not through with my Binondo food trip cravings and saw the Mei Ying Fresh Lumpia and Fresh Sugarcane Juice near Lucky China town Mall which can be found adjacent to J.CO coffee shop. I wanted to try their Fresh Lumpia (being a fan of fresh lumpia myself) which is around 95 pesos, ordered one along with their version of kuchay dumplings which is around 160 pesos for ten pieces. I'd also like to try out their sugarcane juice and machang but I guess this babies will be tried for next time.

I ate the kuchay dumplings in the available stand outside and they serve it with sauce and chili oil. I prefer this kuchay dumplings over the much popular Dong Bei Dumplings. I took home the fresh lumpia as I was already full with the dumplings and I was rearing to get home as soon as possible.

Frankly speaking, I was elated to have tried this because this is the taste that I have been looking for. The fresh lumpia is packed with vegetables, contrary to the usual fresh lumpia which is made up of bamboo shoots. Globe's Lumpia House has this kind of taste before but I don't know what happened and it changed during the pandemic. I think that their quality isn't what it used to be.

VFS Global Biometrics for UKVI for Skilled Worker Visa Experience 2023 - What to do and what to expect

VFS Global Biometrics for UKVI for Skilled Worker Visa Experience 2023 - What to do and what to expect

I was looking and researching for the preparation of the documents needed for the UKVI application as it was not clear whether you'll just bring the original supporting documents despite the size (there is a reminder that you can photocopy it into A4 size if it is smaller or bigger. My confusion lies in the word CAN, so is it optional?)  I was a bit disappointed with the affiliated agency here because I feel that I was not well supported and left hanging with regards to the visa application.

Anyway, let me share my experience so you'll have an idea what I did. I think if the job you got was course through the local agency meaning you've applied for a job via local agency), they would be more hands on based on the YouTube videos of PHRNs to UKRNS and vlogs of nurses like Nurse Even. I was offered a job through a UK agency and they referred me to their partner agency here in the Philippines for the OEC Certificate, so I'm assuming that's why I felt like I'm on my own.

Anyway, at this point in time you might have finished paying (my employer paid for this) the visa and had received an email that it is already paid and you can log in again in your UKVI account to set up an appointment for the biometrics.

Upon logging in, you should download the two forms:

• UK Application Form (the link after the third green tab)
• Documents checklist (first green tab)

Then in clicking the third green tab, I set an appointment for the biometrics in Makati since I'm here in Metro Manila. I chose the afternoon session and the time which was the safest for me because the morning slots where early for me (8 am) for I have to consider the traffic and the whatnots (I don't want to be filled with anxiety on the day).

After you have paid the biometrics appointment for VFS, you will receive an email and appointment confirmation form which you have to print out too. Prepare the UK Application Form, Documents Checklist, Passport and supporting documents. I availed the Document Assistance Scanning and the Courier as per process of the local agency. You'll pay 1904 pesos. Courier is standard only.

Next, do not make the mistake that I did. Print all forms into A4 size outright. Have a clear photocopy/copy of all supporting documents in A4 size, you can have it in black, but it is preferable to have it coloured (the ones that I need to print are colored like the certificate of sponsorship, offer letter). Make 1 copy and put it in a folder.

It is also good that you need to be there at least 30 minutes. It was a good decision that prior to going there, I ate out in Alphaland Southgate Mall. The jeepney ride would entail a 5-10 minutes ride at 13 pesos. I made it there at least 30 minutes and I saw a poster that loitering there is prohibited. I was approached by a security and ask for my purpose. I said that I'm for UK Visa application and he said that they are still letting the people with a 1:30 pm appointment. So I went near the last of the line and found out that there are kioks available like Turks, Master Siomai, Potato Corner, a 7 eleven store and Cafe within the building. VFS is at the 2nd floor.

After slurping a pick up coffee latte, I noticed that there were 3 missed calls and a text from UK visa asking me where I am. I sent back a SMS message that I was already at the place at the back of the line. She messaged me to go upstairs already and called me again as it was already late (mind you it was only 11 mins and my actually appointment time is 19 minutes later). The tone of the caller was a bit off but hey I let it go as long as I finish it through.

Upon taking the escalator, there is an entrance and the lady guard ask me about the appointment and was reluctant to let me in as they are not letting anyone in for the mean time. I told her that somebody from ukvi had called me to go in already. I showed her the text I got and after a while, she checked my bags.

After the bag check area, you'll see a reception area with the countries indicated. Line up and when it was my turn, the receptionist gave me some forms to fill up and then pointed me to the first door on my left. You'll submit it to the personnel on the right side upon entering the entrance. When you avail the document scanning, she'll be the one to sort out

God really moves!

 God really moves!

Keep the faith and remember that life is what you make it. There are things you can't control certainly but you can adjust how to see it.

My God is bigger than my faith

My God is bigger than my faith

I don't know if the universe is just testing me, and the news I got from the agency that slots for deployment are full this year. Placements are based on the demands of the hospitals which they are still waiting for a confirmation. Apparently, after the interview and the offer they made, from what I deduced, a hospital will have to choose you for you to have the final offer. I thought that when you are able to ace the interview you are set to go.

But I am taking this as an opportunity to prepare. I believe that there is always a reason for a delay and He is preparing for what I need. I may be a bit anxious today because of financial constraints, but my God is bigger than my faith. I remember that when it feels and gets hard, that's the time that you have to persevere and pursue because it just means that you are nearing your goal.

TB IOM Test

 

Set an appointment through email

They will email you back for the form that you will need to fill out and send it to them.

They will send you a confirmation email stating your appointment. You have to confirm the message.

You have to print out the two sheets (one copy each) attached in the email - the checklist and the pregnancy declaration form prior to going to the appointment. Do not forget to photocopy your valid passport. Also bring your original passport and another valid identification card.

IOM is located in the 15th floor of the Trafalgar building. From a commuter standpoint, it is nearest the Pacific Star building which is in the intersection between the Gil Puyat/Buendia and Makati Avenue. Drop off in the Pacific Star building and then walk along Makati Avenue which will be going to Ayala Triangle. Turn right when you have reached the second street. Go along until such time that you see a pedestrian. The Trafalgar building is just across a Starbucks coffee shop.

On the entrance of the building, the receptionist will ask for a valid ID and will ask you to log in and then will give you a visitors pass. You then go to the 15th floor and then the guard will ask for your name to which they will check your appointment among the list. They will give you a queue number and direct you to follow the people who are for picture taking. They will also give you a clip board based on the country you tend to apply to. By the way, there are people who apply for UK, Canada, Australia, US.

On the appointment date, I think that they do not follow the appointment time though the guards and employees asked what is your appointment time. They cater on a first come first serve basis. I heard people whose appointment is 10 am and 1 pm. Mind you, I went there 20 minutes prior my appointment and I'm scheduled at 7:45 am. So better get there early. 

After the picture taking, I was asked to go now to the UK reception area and wait for my queue number to be called. Upon call, submit the requirements along with the passport. They will ask and clarify for the details then will instruct you to directly make a payment in the cashier.

You should have an exact amount of 3600 pesos as stated in their notice. They will issue an official receipt. Make sure to check if the details are correct in the receipt. Then go back to the UK reception waiting area and wait for your queue number to be called by the doctor. The queue number will show in the TV screen and what room you'll go into.

When my queue number was called, I went into room 1 and the doctor introduced himself and asked some medical history questions and exposure. He also explained that after the X-ray if there will be no problem the officers will issue a certificate. If there is, he will call me again in the room. I may now proceed with the Xray which is near the cashier.

When my Queue number was called in the Xray room, I was asked to put on a gown and remove top clothes, jewelries and undergarment. The Xray was fast and then went back again in the UK reception waiting  area for the result.

I was really nervous when I hear the officer calling way past my Queue number. It got me thinking if my Chest X-ray has a problem. I sighed a huge relief and was able to calm down when I heard a number before me so I thought calling for results is not by order. It took more than 30 minutes. The officer will let you sign in the list and present the certificate where you have to check if it matches in the passport. If there is no problem, sign the certificate and give it back to the officer so that they'll let the doctor sign it and then put the seals and stamps. The officer will call you and make a final instruction and when you're done, you're good to go!

I went there at 7:30 am and was able to  finish at 9:55 am.

Dear Self

Dear Self 

Now that you've been given an opportunity to start anew, live your life. You've already paid your dues. Live it based on what you wanted and needed. Not what somebody else. I know that it's hard to break the habit of being a people pleaser but this is the time for you to take care of yourself. Nobody will advocate for you but you.

You have been depleted and it seems life was sucked out of you. You control the reins. Always remember that.

You are like a Baobab tree, you feel like insignificant today, but in time you'll be making your mark.

A mother's prayer

 I've thrived in as a result of my mother's prayers

Driven more than ever

 Driven more than ever

I'm feeling more driven than ever. It seems things are getting clear.

I'll get there. And I mean it.

A shoutout to the Philippine government (for the past,the present and hopefully not for the future) from a Ph nurse

A shoutout to the Philippine government (for the past,the present and hopefully not for the future) from a Ph nurse

Reap the karma now. You're still turning a blind eye when you know the solution that is sitting right in front of you. When we were crying out for help and trying to voice out our concerns, what did we get? A sarcastic remark that it is a simple lesson in economics - surplus versus demand. Filipino nurses were abused for a very long time, exploited to the point that we were paying exuberant training fees amounting to 10,000 pesos (public hospitals also do this, surprise!). Even a meager increase in the salary was vetoed because you said that the hospitals association (hello De Grano I remember you participating) cannot afford to do so and it will be unfair for the other healthcare professionals. Backer system is the key if you want to have a regular position (well it may still apply today with public hospitals if you want a plantilla position and not a job order). Contractualization was rampant and the government was the top ranking employer that does this. Remember RN HEALS? Nurses in the province are taking a home pay that only amounts to 5000 per month and deductions are not included here. So a huge number of us resorted to the BPOs and other industries in order to survived. We were paid lower than the minimum wage earner. Even household help and cleaners had better pay than us. We were demoralized to the extreme. Imagine yourself putting all that 4 years of hard studying and toiling plus the review for the board examination just so in the end to get paid 5000 pesos. Tuition fees of nursing schools are the highest in the undergraduate program even in state universities. Peoples' lives and licenses were on the line, we were held accountable and yet we were gaslighted that we should be thankful to get this type of treatment. The highest expectations and high standard requirements but shitty compensation. Some insensitive people might say that we shouldn't rant because it is what we promised to do. The Nightingale Pledge. For the service of the people. What does that mean anymore when we were demoralized to a pulp? Because of your insensitivity people, that sense of compassion and drive to be of service slowly faded away. I realized that you know what, I'm done playing a martyr. Maybe it's time to take care of myself first. Try to immerse yourself to what horrendous situation nurses are subjected to and let me know what you think.

I thought that it was unjust that people had the notion that we you become a nurse, you just like to make money and work abroad. I was once someone who didn't really had the intention to work elsewhere than here. Call it to being too idealistic and someone who wants to pay it forward, I thought I could survive it here as others do. But as time went on and reality struck painfully, it pierce every inch of that soul to serve and the meaning of service slowly became slavery of servitude.

And then the pandemic happened. Everybody was scared. For it took the lives of even young healthy individuals. Nobody wants to front the lines now. Units in the hospitals closed because of shortage of nurses. Now surprisingly, there were increase in the salary and benefits like birthday cakes, signing bonus and such to entice us. Review centers are even sponsored now. Should we be thankful? No. Because we know our worth and that in the first place we deserve better compensation and better working conditions. I'm proud of the new generation of nurses that know already that these things are mandatory and not an option. And this time, fuck that nationalistic theme your spewing about (I'm talking about those dramatic legislators with all talk but no action) when in reality you're treating us like shit.

There is no shortage of nurses. Only that nurses don't want to subject themselves to the harsh conditions in the hospital. Unpaid overtime which could last for more than 2 hours or more, bullying, unsafe nurse to patient ratios, the verbal abuse and disrespect that we get from some patients and companions who may have taught they already bought our soul just because they are paying a premium amount in the hospital. Training requirements like a basic life support that costs 2,500 pesos and Intravenous training for 2,500 pesos, ACLS that is around 10k or more should be attended first before you are employed.

Nurses take care of people but who takes care of these health care workers? Do not force us to serve when the government is not the ones paying for all the expenses in the nursing school. Give up your salary instead and take away the money in politics. Will there still be remaining that are willing to do public service?

The Philippines is a circus. And I can't wait to leave it. 

-Coming from a decade long practicing PHNurse 

The third time's the charm!

 The third time's the charm!

Thank God for these blessings! I finally got 2 offers and I thought I won't make it on my preferred Trust. It was fast to think that I did both the two interviews yesterday!

Personal thoughts

Personal thoughts

Since I don't have anyone who is willing to listen to me, I'll just lay out my thoughts and feelings here if you don't mind. Feel free to skip this post if you think that this is toxic for you to listen to.

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I get it that sometimes I tend to reminisce the difficult situations that I were in before. I just wanted to be heard and rant sometimes. I mean who doesn't? I think that aside from feeling good (though it may mean to some that it is negativity), speaking about it for me means you are also processing these emotions so you can eventually let it all out and heal. It would only be bad when you continue to wallow in these destructive emotions. And I am deeply triggered and angered whenever my mother would try to invalidate what I'm feeling when I'm trying to say something. Dismiss it that it was all in the past and I needed to moved on.

When I listen, I really listen. I guess it was foolish of me to set up expectations with people that they will also do that for me even what I call family. I'm so tired and each day I'm getting disappointed, while they cast me aside for something better. I guess, that's what people are. Selfish to the core. 

Or maybe it could be me. Maybe I am the problem for being such a  doormat. And I think that from childhood to teenage years, I was gaslighted and manipulated to be a people pleaser. And I really grieve for that lost childhood/teenage years where I didn't do what I want to do. But this time, it will change. I am more motivated than ever to fight for what I want without feeling the guilt and I am not anymore subjecting myself to holding on for whatever that I wanted to do even it is family. I would focus now on what will be the most beneficial to me. I won't anymore give my time or support freely because people tend to take advantage of that. When you needed it the most, no one seems to be there.

Be scarce self. Don't be too available for people who'll just toss you aside easily the moment they meet someone more interesting. You are too tired and it leaves a metallic bitter taste afterwards.

I refuse to be a mentally punching bag. I will prioritize myself first before others and they will not matter not until I'm already settled or five steps ahead. I will not easily feed useful information for they always take credit for it. And the worse about it is that, they would realize that.

I deserve to be treated with respect and if you cannot give that basic courtesy, I will also deflect that same energy to you. I am bright and smart enough to discern and even anticipate events. I can foretell and foresee things, it's just that I  will further enhance that skill in order to 

Who Loves Tubby Nugget?

 Who Loves Tubby Nugget?

If you have been using Tiktok, you  might already encountered this cute and loveable Tubby which sings a song while cutting a colored paper and shaping it into a heart.

Oral Hygiene

I found an interesting knowledge about Oral Hygiene on Tiktok which was made by Sir who works in the dental industry.

These are:

Squish/Wash with water.

Floss

Mouthwash

Toothbrush

Do not rinse with water to retain the flouride

Tweet

 Tweet

Everybody wants to be heard but it seems nobody wants to listen. - Sanegeal Farmhear

Coupon Sites

 Coupon Sites

There was once a time when coupon sites were rampant and the IT items. I thought the hype had gone down and it vanished but some of these coupon still exists. Personally I haven't tried the coupon and would like to try it out

Eatigo - Food coupons - https://eatigo.com/ph/manila/en

Klook - Tour/travel coupon - https://www.klook.com/en-PH/

Metrodeal - 

Nursing and Midwifery Council CBT Pearsonvue Practice Questions

For those who are taking the CBT or the Computer Based Test, I would recommend that when it comes to practice questions especially the numeracy part, it is essential that you answer the practice questions in the pearsonvue website. Here is the link - https://home.pearsonvue.com/nmc/practicetests

Why? It is almost identical to the items that I've got in the examination. Just with different values. It is as what I've heard from some people.

Food adventures in Binondo that I would try someday

 Food adventures in Binondo that I would try someday

Lan Zhou La Mien

Cafe Mezzanine - Pork Xia Long Bao,  pork asado with egg adobo, beef wanton

Dong Bei Dumplings - 

Shanghai Fried Siopao

Lumpia ariwa

Eng Bee Tin - Binondo Bites - Fried Xia Long Bao

Ying Ying Tea House

You Did Well Today

You Did Well Today

To My Youth

The Japanese Rural Life

 The Japanese Rural Life

Farm and life sim

A share angle frame

 A share angle frame

You got this, Love. I acknowledged that you're feeling down and blue and hopeless at the moment which makes you a bit unbearable at this time. It may sound cliche but this too shall pass. Remember your white blood cells (they are not even millions but billions!) that are always fighting for you until the end so you have to fight too. You always have a CHOICE and you CAN. Favorable results may seem not to be in sight now, but it will eventually unfold before you know it. You're tougher than you look. You've fought through a lot of life's adversities since childhood and most of the time you are left tending to yourself while giving yourself all the way. While no one might have the knowledge about it and some people takes credit for the things that you do, you know it in your heart that you deserved that pat in the back.

There are vast amounts of books to read, music and places to be explored and people who you'll be blessed to meet. It's time to be that courageous adventurer. Take that risk. It's time to let go of holding onto something.

Remember that I'll always be the number one cheerer for you.

All the best,

Sanegeal Farmhear